Free Earthbag Training for NGOs

This earthbag shelter can be built for around $200 -$300 in a few days by a few workers.
This earthbag shelter can be built for around $200 -$300 in a few days by a few workers.

Due to the amazing success of earthbag buildings surviving the recent earthquake, I’m receiving requests to train the trainers who will help rebuild Nepal. I just started the Take it to Zero project and so it seems fitting to offer this training for free.

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First Steps Himalaya.org Appeal for Help in Nepal

Earthquake damage in Nepal
Earthquake damage in Nepal

“We have launched an urgent appeal to help provide relief for FSH supported villages in rural Nepal devastated by the April 25th earthquake. We are deeply concerned about the welfare of the children and families supported by First Steps Himalaya in our 22 project villages.

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Earthbag Women’s Centre in Vanuatu Withstands Category 5 Cyclone

The earthbag Erakor Women’s Center withstood Cyclone Pam and helped local families survive.
The earthbag Erakor Women’s Center withstood Cyclone Pam and helped local families survive.

Cyclone Pam, one of the worst cyclones ever recorded in the Pacific Ocean, blasted the island chain of Vanuatu with category 5 winds up to 185 miles per hour and 26 foot storm surge. The women’s earthbag center near Port Vila and the earthbag water tank made it through the storm with minimal damage, despite the widespread destruction in the region.

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Update: An Earthbag Training Center for Teachers in Nepal

An earthbag training center for teachers in Nepal from Eco-Logis on Vimeo.

“A short video presenting First Step Himalaya, NGO who is building a training center for teachers in rural Nepal (Sindhupalchok district). They decided to build with earthbags: an economical, ecological & quick technique.

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The Mud Home: Earthbag Foundations

Gravel bag foundations save thousands of dollars, use no concrete and don’t wick water up in the wall.
Gravel bag foundations save thousands of dollars, use no concrete and don’t wick water up in the wall.

“There will be many who refuse to believe this will work. What no concrete? Will be their never-ending refrain.

Concrete foundations have been around for less than a hundred years. Buildings have been built for millennia. In the eastern Mediterranean it’s common to see structures still standing over 2000 years after they were built, without a drop of concrete.

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